Entry Word: defy

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to go against the commands, prohibitions, or rules of <we knew weʼd get in trouble if we defied our parentsʼ curfew> — see disobey
2 to invite (someone) to take part in a contest or to perform a feat <after missing the target, she defied him to do better> — see challenge 2
3 to oppose (something hostile or dangerous) with firmness or courage <a rescue team willing to defy the oncoming storm> — see face 2
4 to refuse to give in to <a bicyclist who regularly defies illness and infirmity in order to compete in races> — see resist